Microbiological evaluation of surfaces in intensive care: Thinking about nosocomial infection prevention strategies

Abstract

Objective: To determine the microbiological profile of bacteria isolated and identified from beds and infusion pumps in the intensive care unit of a university hospital in Rio de Janeiro state.Method: Nine samples were collected from patients’ bed side rails and eight from infusion pump keypads in an intensive care unit in October 2014.An area of 100cm² was delimited as the sampling parameter.Samples were collected using sterile swabs, which were wetted and transported with Cary-Blair.The microorganisms were isolated, classified, and then tested for antimicrobial resistance.Results: Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus was the most prevalent type.Antimicrobial susceptibility testing indicated some of these Staphylococci were multi-drug resistant.Conclusion: Multi-professional discussion of hospital safety issues must be expanded, and continuing professional development emerges as one possible pathway to success in nosocomial infection control.